LaBrassBanda’s ‘Polka Party’ launches on March 21, celebrating the release of their ninth album. Frontman Stefan Dettl highlights the joy of polka music, which has roots in Eastern Europe and influences Bavarian folk. The album features tracks like ‘Almaty’ and will be available on cassette. The band, known for their energetic performances blending brass with pop and ska, will tour Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, emphasizing community connection and the joy of live music.
Join LaBrassBanda’s Exciting ‘Polka Party’
Get ready to groove at LaBrassBanda’s highly anticipated ‘Polka Party,’ kicking off on March 21. This dynamic Bavarian brass band hailing from Chiemgau is set to unveil their ninth album, marking their seventh studio release. Frontman Stefan Dettl, 43, emphasizes the essence of a Polka Party, stating, “The most important thing is the passion and togetherness,” whether through music, dance, or simply enjoying each other’s company.
Experience The Joy of Polka
Dettl shares insights into the rich history of polka, which originated in Eastern Europe and has significantly influenced Bavarian folk music. He recalls encounters during their travels to places like Kazakhstan and Estonia, where fans have described their lively music as ‘Polka-Punk.’ “Today, you can even see people moshing to polka at festivals. With our tuba, trombone, and trumpet, performing live is an absolute blast!”
The upcoming album features tracks such as ‘Almaty,’ ‘Balkan Wedding Second Day,’ and ‘Devil Dance,’ and will even be available on cassette. Dettl explains, “When creating merchandise, we want items people cherish and enjoy. In a world where everything is streamed, having something tangible means a lot.” He fondly recalls how vinyl records became a hit with fans after the band gained popularity in 2007.
Since their debut in 2007, LaBrassBanda has won hearts with their unique blend of Bavarian dialect lyrics and lively mixes of brass, pop, techno, and ska, showcased in their electrifying performances. Unlike many artists in today’s music industry, the band embraces the human touch in songwriting. “AI can’t replicate Bavarian culture,” Dettl laughs. “Writing our lyrics is a passion we cherish, and live performances allow us to connect with our audience on a deeper level.” He highlights the importance of live interaction, stating, “We love being able to adjust our performance based on the audience’s energy.”
From April to September, LaBrassBanda will embark on a tour across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, focusing on small towns and traditional beer tents. Dettl expresses his enthusiasm for these venues, explaining, “In Bavaria, we enjoy the beer tent tradition, where we can connect with local communities and create unforgettable memories. It’s always exciting to discover new towns and meet friendly faces.”
Dettl also cherishes the diverse audiences that come together at their shows. “It’s heartwarming to see a grandfather swaying with his walking stick alongside his energetic grandson. There’s a beautiful sense of community and respect among all ages.” He acknowledges the importance of their concerts in today’s world, where shared experiences and communal joy are more vital than ever.
While the band has played numerous shows in cities like Hamburg, they’ve also encountered a mix of reactions in various locales. “In Hamburg, we’ve performed around 30 times, and there’s a loyal fan base. However, in some places, people are amazed and curious about our music and language,” Dettl shares. He notes that audiences outside Europe tend to embrace their music with open arms, focusing more on the joy of dancing rather than the lyrics.
To maintain their high-energy performances, Dettl admits the band has to stay fit. “We’ve realized we need to train a bit more,” he says, adding that each member has their own fitness routine. “Especially for brass players, staying in shape is crucial.” He also shares his personal goal of losing a few pounds to enhance his stage presence and stays active through long walks on his agricultural farm.
Reflecting on their 18-year journey, Dettl expresses gratitude for the band’s enduring success, despite lineup changes. “It’s like a drug, being able to share our composed songs on stage and feel the audience’s love after the show. The exhilaration we experience after giving our all during performances is indescribable, and we leave with smiles for days.”